Articles by Sharp Grossmont Hospital Health News Team

“Revolutionary” is not a word that Dr. Charles Athill uses often. But the Sharp-affiliated cardiac electrophysiologist says it’s the best way to describe a new type of pacemaker now available for his patients at Sharp Memorial Hospital, as well as patients at Sharp Grossmont Hospital.

Having surgery can be stressful, even if you’ve prepared yourself. If you are getting ready to undergo your first surgery, it’s helpful to have an idea of what to expect and how to make the best of your hospital stay.

Maybe you know someone who always seems to have a gloomy disposition, or perhaps you tend to lean more toward pessimism. For those who have difficulty adopting a rosy outlook on life, are there ways to train the brain to be more positive?

Exercise boosts energy, improves mood and promotes better sleep. But did you know it also can help prevent colon cancer? Research shows that even minimal amounts of moderate exercise reduces risk and dramatically helps those already diagnosed with the disease.

“In general, studies have shown lower cancer rates in those who are more physically active and have an exercise routine,” says Dr. David Bodkin, a board-certified oncologist and hematologist affiliated with Sharp Grossmont Hospital.

Whether recent or one that happened years ago, the experience of losing a loved one may be difficult to bear, particularly during the holidays when moments with family and friends are often the focal point.

You’ve probably seen pharmaceutical ads touting aspirin as a “wonder drug” when it comes to preventing heart attacks and stroke. But should you be taking it daily to fend off cardiovascular disease? Here are answers to some common questions about aspirin and your heart.

On November 12, two chaplains will hit the Las Vegas Strip for a good cause. Sharp HospiceCare chaplains Solomon Hailu and John Tastad will run the Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon in Las Vegas to raise money to support Sharp HospiceCare patients.

San Diego County is in the midst of a public health emergency due to the ongoing hepatitis A outbreak, with more than 480 cases and 330 hospitalizations (as of October 3, 2017).

While hepatitis A is not a chronic condition like hepatitis C, the liver infection can cause loss of liver function and require hospitalization. In those with compromised health, it can even lead to death.

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been through it before, getting surgery can be nerve-wracking. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help reduce stress and set you up for a better outcome.

While providing care for the members of the Navajo Nation in the remote, high desert of New Mexico, Dr. James Ochi treated many children who had severe, chronic ear infections. His experience is backed by research showing that Native American children suffer from ear infections—that may result in hearing loss—at a rate of three times higher than average. Research also shows that middle ear infections may have a genetic link and may be passed down from parent to child.